Octopus vs. E.ON: EV & Solar Tariff Comparison - Which is Best?

This article compares two popular energy suppliers, Octopus Energy and E.ON, focusing on their respective electric vehicle (EV) and solar tariffs. The author, a long-time Octopus Energy customer, details their reasons for switching to E.ON's Next Drive tariff after experiencing stagnant off-peak rates and declining export rates with Octopus, despite falling wholesale energy prices. The comparison spans over a ten-month period, analyzing import and export costs, tariff adjustments, and the overall user experience with each provider. The author provides a detailed account of their savings and highlights the advantages and disadvantages of both dynamic and fixed-rate tariffs.The key focus is on the cost-effectiveness and practicality of each tariff, considering factors such as off-peak charging hours, export payment processes, and the impact of battery storage. The article concludes with a personal recommendation based on the author's experience, weighing the potential for higher returns with Octopus's dynamic pricing against the simplicity and guaranteed savings offered by E.ON's fixed-rate plan. This comparison will be invaluable for consumers considering switching energy suppliers, particularly those with solar panels and electric vehicles.

Pros And Cons

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Reasons for Switching from Octopus Energy

After six years with Octopus Energy, I decided to switch due to stagnant off-peak electricity rates despite falling wholesale energy prices. The off-peak rate remained at 9p per kWh, while the export rate was a meager 8p per kWh. Even their Octopus Flux tariff, while offering a lower off-peak import rate, showed a decline in export rates, making it less financially attractive.

The lack of access to the more competitive Octopus Intelligent Optimus Go tariff, requiring a compatible EV charger, further fueled my decision. I predicted that Octopus Energy's rates would continue to decrease in favorability, leading to my eventual switch.

The E.ON Next Drive Tariff Experience

I switched to E.ON Next Drive tariff in June 2024, securing a 12-month fixed contract with a peak rate of 28.56p per kWh and an off-peak rate of 6.9p per kWh for seven hours. Their export tariff, Next Exclusive Export B2, offered a flat rate of 16.5p per kWh for all exports. The fixed rate was a significant advantage, eliminating unexpected price increases for a year.

While marketed as an EV tariff, it wasn't a requirement. The switching process was smooth and relatively quick; import setup took around two weeks, while export was operational within a week. Overall, my experience with E.ON customer service was positive, although the app's functionality was initially lacking.

Tariff Rate Changes and V7 Upgrade

Both Octopus and E.ON adjusted their tariffs over time. Octopus Go saw peak rate increases, while Octopus Flux saw increases across import rates but fluctuating export rates. E.ON released Next Drive V4, lowering peak and off-peak rates but significantly increasing the daily standing charge. I subsequently upgraded to the more cost-effective V7.

In April 2025, Octopus Go experienced further peak rate hikes, while Octopus Flux again saw import rate increases but a decrease in the daytime export rate. E.ON's Next Drive V7 saw a peak rate increase and a standing charge reduction. Overall, the rate adjustments highlighted the volatility within the energy market.

Cost Savings and Daily Usage

My household's savings were considerable. Over ten months with E.ON, our average price per kWh was 7.05p, significantly lower than Octopus Go (10.05p) and Octopus Flux (14.65p). We achieved this despite having only a relatively small battery storage capacity.

The longer seven-hour off-peak period with E.ON allowed for more effective battery charging and the ability to charge our EV without needing an expensive smart charger. We leveraged off-peak periods for water heating and electric showers, maximizing cost savings.

Export Revenue Comparison and Payment Methods

Export revenue was significantly higher with E.ON (£799.25) compared to Octopus (£526.54) over the same period, despite Octopus's export rates fluctuating, sometimes dropping below 10p per kWh. While E.ON's payment process is less streamlined (requiring a separate export account and potentially quarterly requests), it still generated substantial income.

E.ON's export payments are typically annual but can be requested quarterly, requiring submission of meter readings. It's important to add a timestamp to photos to ensure accurate processing. The author opted against discharging the home battery to the grid due to battery degradation concerns.

Overall Assessment and Future of Export Rates

Daily life with E.ON's fixed rates was simpler and less stressful than constantly monitoring Octopus's dynamic pricing. The seven hours of off-peak electricity also optimized solar export by ensuring full battery charging before the sun rose. The substantial savings on both import and export costs made the switch worthwhile.

Concerns remain about Octopus Energy's potential to reduce export rates further due to their increased market share, and the lack of minimum export rate regulations. The author recommends a flat export rate for simplicity, although dynamic rates could offer potentially higher returns with optimization and appropriate technology.

Conclusion: Which Tariff is Best?

Both Octopus and E.ON offer distinct advantages. Octopus's dynamic tariffs could yield higher returns with smart home automation and careful timing, but require more monitoring and management. E.ON's flat-rate approach provides simplicity and predictability, even if potential earnings may be slightly lower.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual preferences, technological capabilities, and comfort levels with managing dynamic pricing. For simplicity and guaranteed savings, E.ON's fixed-rate tariff offers a compelling alternative to Octopus's more volatile approach. The author, based on personal experience, found E.ON’s simplicity and savings to be superior.